Bharat Kukreja’s Café Holiday now has one more address in the city. Two years after the first one opened in Juhi-Versova, the restaurateur has launched his second branch in Pali Hill, giving Mumbai’s swanky suburb a Mediterranean-styled, fusion cuisine dining option that seamlessly transforms from a casual-chic café to buzzing party destination.
The opening night hosted by Kukreja was power-packed. Guests included Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde, singer Sonu Nigam, film directors Madhur Bhandarkar and Kabir Khan, film producer Ritesh Sidhwani, yesteryear superstar Jeetendra among several others. Recently, cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga visited the café. The former Sri Lankan cricket captain and politician is considered among the greats, especially after the pivotal role he played in his country winning the World Cup in 1996.
Café Holiday Pali Hill continues to reflect Kukreja’s vision, with the alfresco section adding to the holiday mood that hits you as soon as you enter. Bestsellers on the menu include the oven-baked pizzas, sushi rolls, Indian tandoor and a range of house cocktails—favourites, we’re told, include the Old Fashioned, Gin Sour and the Expresso Martini. The Sunday brunch with a live singer, especially, is a huge draw, with a dedicated retro night planned for the near future.
Kukreja’s flagship is already among the city’s best restaurants as well as a popular place to host celebrations. Week after week, you’ll find the café booked for parties. “It’s because of the overall curated experience that we offer. From the food to the service and DJ music all day, it’s the warm and personal touch that really makes the difference,” says Kukreja, “For me, my customers are like family. My team and I work hard to ensure they have the best time.”
Given the overwhelming response to both branches, Kukreja now plans to expand his brand’s presence to yet another buzzing destination, Goa. This is in addition to the two Café Holidays already in the works for Mumbai—one in the city’s emerging real estate hotspot Mira/Bhayandar and another at Nariman Point in SoBo. “I can’t reveal much at this point, but rest assured we’re planning lots of new and exciting experiences for our customers,” says Kukreja.
